FAQs - Care instructions

How do I care for the dock pad?

Avoid folding and creasing the pad. Do not squish the dock, or store it bunched up.  Do not machine wash or tumble dry the pad, as doing so can cause permanently folding and creasing of the pad.

Hand wash the pad in cold water and lay flat to dry completely.

How do I prevent mildew (mold) from growing on my dock?

If you are concerned about "mold" on your dock, it is actually likely mildew that concerns you (mildew is what sometimes grows on damp textiles, whereas mold tends to grow on food or in other areas).  Any time fabric does not dry out after getting wet (e.g. from wet diapers, spit-up, sweat, or incomplete drying after washing, etc.), there is a chance mildew can develop.  Here is how you can help prevent mildew from developing on your DockATot dock:

✅ Be sure to remove the cardboard insert before first use of the product.

✅ If the DockATot dock gets wet or damp, allow it to dry completely before using or stowing away.

✅ Move the DockATot dock about—regularly shake it, ventilate it, and expose it to light and fresh air.

✅ Avoid storing the DockATot dock in humid or damp areas.   

✅ Never add waterproof materials to, in, or beneath the DockATot dock.

If you should find mildew on the DockATot dock over time, we recommend adding a cup of white vinegar when washing the product according to the instructions on the product label.  Alternatively, you can soak the affected piece to soak in a solution of white vinegar and water for an hour or two before washing the piece according to the instructions on the product label. 

Notably, there is nothing in the materials of DockATot docks that causes mildew, and we have refrained from adding anti-fungal or anti-bacterial chemicals to the DockATot dock.  However, like any fabric product, mildew can grow on a DockATot dock if it gets wet and is not fully dried.  Appropriate care is necessary to keep your dock in top shape.

If you have any other questions or concerns you can contact us at info@dockatotmiddleeast.com.

How should I wash my DockATot dock?

Each piece of the dock is washable, care instructions are below for each piece (for more detailed instructions please refer to the label on the bottom of your dock cover).  We do not recommend using bleach on any part of your dock - stain remover is preferred.

Outer Cover: Machine wash in warm water inside a garment bag and hang to air dry (to help avoid color bleeding for covers with prints, be sure to immediately hang to dry after machine cycle is finished and ensure there are no folds or overlapping when drying).  Do not tumble dry.  Do not bleach.  Do not dry clean.  

Pad: Hand wash in cold water and lay flat to dry.  Do not tumble dry.  Do not iron.  Do not bleach.  Do not dry clean.

Inner Sleeve: Machine wash in cold water and hang to air dry. Do not tumble dry.  Do not bleach.  Do not dry clean.

Inner Tube:  The tube rarely needs washing, shaking and ventilating are usually enough.  If washing the tube, machine wash in hot water inside a garment bag and then tumble dry on low heat only.  You can shake or fluff to redistribute the filling as necessary.  If still damp, lay flat to dry.  Do not iron.  Do not bleach.  Do not dry clean.

Should I wash my dock before using?

The docks are clean and do not require washing. We only handle them with white gloves during the sewing process. If you wish to wash the dock prior to the first use, be sure to follow the washing instructions.

Why does the pad in my dock seem lumpy?

Your pad should not be lumpy and should only be used if it is smooth and flat. The pad should have been flat when received. (If it is not, please email us at info@dockatotmiddleeast.com upon receipt.)

To prevent a pad from getting lumpy: (1) carefully follow instructions for washing and drying the product; (2) only store in the flat position so that the pad does not crease; (3) do not machine wash or tumble dry the pad, as doing so can cause permanent folding and creasing of the pad.

If your pad is lumpy, creased, or otherwise not flat, reach into the cover and smooth any lumps with your hand.  If you have any other questions or concerns you can contact us at info@dockatotmiddleeast.com.